Ghana’s minimum wage stands at GH₵18.18 per day
As of 2024, Ghana’s minimum wage stands at GH₵18.18 per day. For many Ghanaians, this daily wage is the cornerstone of their livelihood.
Breaking it down, this translates to GH₵2.27 per hour, assuming an eight-hour workday, which rounds to GH₵2.30 per hour.
This figure, though seemingly straightforward, highlights the challenges faced by minimum wage workers across the nation.
Ghana, like many other developing countries, struggles with the complexities of balancing economic growth with the welfare of its workforce.
The current minimum wage, while slightly improving from previous years, remains insufficient to meet the basic needs of many workers. With the cost of living rising, GH₵2.30 per hour does little to cover essential expenses such as housing, healthcare, education, and food.
Consider the everyday expenses of a minimum wage worker. A significant portion of their earnings goes toward transportation, especially for those living in urban areas where the cost of commuting is high.
Food prices, driven up by inflation and sometimes by shortages, further strain their meager earnings. Healthcare, a critical need, often becomes a luxury that many cannot afford, leading to untreated illnesses and decreased productivity.
The government’s role in addressing these issues cannot be overstated. Policymakers must consider not just the nominal value of the minimum wage but its real value in the context of living costs.
Social safety nets, such as subsidies for essential goods, affordable housing schemes, and accessible healthcare, are crucial in alleviating the burden on minimum wage workers.
Moreover, fostering an economic environment that encourages job creation and skills development will empower workers to move beyond minimum wage positions.
It is also essential for the private sector to play its part. Businesses must recognize the value of their employees and the importance of fair wages in ensuring a motivated and productive workforce.
Story by: Pepertual Anyimadu
